How Names Are Approved

When the first images of the surface of a planet or satellite are obtained, themes for naming features are chosen and names of a few important features are proposed, usually by members of the appropriate IAU task group. Later, as higher resolution images and maps become available, names for additional features may be requested by investigators mapping or describing specific surfaces or geological formations. At this point, anyone may suggest that a specific name be considered by a Task Group, but there is no guarantee that the name will be accepted. Names successfully reviewed by a task group are submitted by the task group chair to the Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature (WGPSN). Upon successful review by vote of the members of the WGPSN, names are considered approved as official IAU nomenclature, and can be used on maps and in publications. Approved names are immediately entered into the Gazetteer of Planetary Nomenclature, and posted on its web site. Any objections to these names based on significant substantive problems or inconsistent application of normal IAU naming convention must be forwarded in writing or email to the IAU General-Secretary within three months from the time the name was placed on the web site. The General-Secretary will make a recommendation to the WGPSN Chair as to whether or not the approved name(s) should be reconsidered. The General-Secretary, in concurrence with the IAU President, may seek the advice of external consultants.

Approved names are also listed in the transactions of the IAU.

The IAU page Naming Astronomical Objects discusses the processes for naming dwarf planets and satellites of planets in the Solar System.

Suggestions should be sent to Tenielle Gaither, 2255 N. Gemini Drive, Flagstaff, Arizona 86001, or by e-mail: tgaither@usgs.gov.